In September 2019, Apple refreshed its smartphone lineup with the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max. The launch introduced new cameras, faster processors, and a range of color options. For anyone tracking the official timeline, the key dates are well documented.
Apple held a special event at the Steve Jobs Theater on September 10, 2019, where it unveiled all three models. Preorders opened shortly after, and the phones reached stores within the same month. The release schedule was consistent across the US and many other major markets.
When Was the iPhone 11 Released? Exact Date and Preorder Timeline
September 20, 2019
September 13, 2019
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
$699, $999, $1099
The exact date the iPhone 11 became available in stores was Friday, September 20, 2019. This applied to all three models simultaneously. The preorder phase began one week earlier.
- The iPhone 11 was released on September 20, 2019, alongside iOS 13.
- Preorders began exactly one week prior on September 13, 2019 at 5:00 a.m. PDT.
- The lineup included three models: base iPhone 11, Pro, and Pro Max – all available the same day.
- At launch, the iPhone 11 started at $699, making it the most affordable flagship at the time.
- As of 2025, the iPhone 11 is still supported with iOS updates, but lacks 5G and newer features.
- The iPhone 11 remains a popular choice in the used market due to its solid performance and camera.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official release date | September 20, 2019 |
| Preorder date | September 13, 2019 (5:00 a.m. PDT) |
| Initial operating system | iOS 13.0 |
| Display | 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD |
| Processor | Apple A13 Bionic |
| Storage options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Colors | Black, White, Green, Yellow, Purple, (Product)RED |
| Water resistance | IP68 (2 meters up to 30 minutes) |
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max: Release Dates Compared
All three phones – the base iPhone 11, the iPhone 11 Pro, and the iPhone 11 Pro Max – launched on the exact same day. Apple’s official announcement confirmed that preorders for the Pro and Pro Max began on Friday, September 13, with in-store availability on Friday, September 20.
This simultaneous release was a first for Apple. Previously, the company staggered launches between the standard and premium models.
When Did iPhone 11 Preorders Start?
Preorders for the entire iPhone 11 lineup began on September 13, 2019, at 5:00 a.m. Pacific Time (8:00 a.m. Eastern). According to MacRumors, all models were available unlocked at launch.
Were There Any Differences in Launch Availability by Model?
Yes. 9to5Mac reported that the iPhone 11 had wide launch-day availability, while some configurations of the iPhone 11 Pro slipped to later delivery windows depending on color and storage choices.
iPhone 11 Launch Price, Specifications, and Color Options
Apple set aggressive pricing for the iPhone 11 lineup. The base iPhone 11 started at $699, the iPhone 11 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 11 Pro Max at $1,099, according to the Apple Newsroom.
The $699 starting price undercut competitors and drove strong sales, making it one of the best-selling iPhones. The phone featured a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display and the Apple A13 Bionic processor.
The iPhone 11 was available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB configurations. Color choices included Black, White, Green, Yellow, Purple, and (Product)RED. The Pro models were available in Space Gray, Silver, Gold, and Midnight Green.
The iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max introduced a third camera lens for telephoto, and both featured Super Retina XDR OLED displays. Water resistance was rated IP68 on all models.
Is the iPhone 11 Still Worth Buying in 2025?
The iPhone 11 remains a viable choice for budget-conscious buyers in 2025. It continues to receive iOS updates, with support expected up to iOS 19 or 20. However, it lacks 5G connectivity, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
On the secondary market, the phone is widely available at reduced prices. Its A13 Bionic chip still handles everyday tasks well, and the camera system remains competitive. Buyers should weigh the lack of an OLED display and telephoto lens against the low cost.
If you are looking for a used iPhone in 2025, check the official Apple refurbished store or certified resellers. The iPhone 11 still offers good value, but consider the iPhone 12 if 5G is essential.
iPhone 11 Launch Timeline: From Announcement to Today
Here is a chronological timeline of the iPhone 11 lifecycle:
- September 10, 2019 – Apple special event at Steve Jobs Theater; iPhone 11 announced.
- September 13, 2019 – Preorders begin for all three models.
- September 20, 2019 – Official retail release in first-wave countries including the US and UK.
- October 2019 – Second-wave launch in additional countries.
- September 2022 – iPhone 11 discontinued by Apple.
- 2025 – iPhone 11 still supported with iOS updates; widely available on the secondary market.
What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear About the iPhone 11?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| iPhone 11 was announced on September 10, 2019 and released on September 20, 2019. | Exact global release timeline varies by country; some regions received the phone weeks later. |
| Preorders started on September 13, 2019 at 5:00 a.m. PDT. | Long-term support beyond 2025 is not officially confirmed by Apple. |
| Three models launched simultaneously: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max. |
What Was the Significance of the iPhone 11 Launch?
The iPhone 11 represented a significant upgrade from the iPhone XR, offering a dual-camera system and the A13 Bionic chip. Its release marked the first time Apple offered three models at different price points on the same day.
The $699 starting price undercut competitors and drove strong sales, making it one of the best-selling iPhones. In 2025, the iPhone 11 remains a viable budget option, though it lacks OLED display, telephoto lens, and 5G.
What Do Authoritative Sources Say About the iPhone 11 Release?
Several sources confirm the release timeline. According to Wikipedia, “Preorders began on September 13, 2019, and the phone was officially released on September 20, 2019.”
“Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 11 will be available for pre-order on Friday 13th September and released on Friday 20th September.”
– Apple Newsroom (via MyMemory blog)
“Released 2019, September 20”
– GSMArena
Summary: Key Takeaways About the iPhone 11 Release Date
The iPhone 11 was officially released on September 20, 2019, following preorders that started on September 13, 2019. The lineup included three models at different price points, all available the same day. For buying advice, see our guide on How to Get PAC Code – Complete UK Guide for All Networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did iPhone 11 preorders start?
Preorders typically began at 12:01 AM Pacific Time on September 13, 2019.
Was the iPhone 11 released in all countries on the same day?
No, the initial release on September 20, 2019 included first-wave countries. Other regions received it in the following weeks.
How much did the iPhone 11 Pro cost at launch?
The iPhone 11 Pro started at $999 for the 64GB model, with higher storage options available at $1149 and $1349.
Does the iPhone 11 have a headphone jack?
No, the iPhone 11 does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack.
What is the battery life of the iPhone 11?
Apple rated it for up to 17 hours of video playback.
Sophie Chen is News & Politics Editor at readingwire.co.uk, covering UK and world news, politics, policy and current affairs.